Today, it is difficult to imagine life without the internet. However, when you consider the mechanics of how the internet works, it seems much more complicated beneath the surface.
The foundation on which the entire internet is built consists of servers and web hosts (such as WordPress). Website Hosting allows you to view any site from anywhere in the world without waiting for minutes or hours for the website to load.
We have come a long way from the early days of dial-up modems and long waiting times. Today, users expect instant gratification, in any corner of the internet they visit. So, let’s dive into the world of website hosting and see what it’s all about.
What is Web Hosting, and why do I need it?
Three Types Of Hosting Plans
Web Hosting Examples
What type of Hosting is best for beginners?
How To Choose A Web Host
FAQ about Website Hosting
Build a better website with Rock content
What is Web Hosting, and why do I need it?
Website Hosting is the process of storing site elements (i.e., images, text, graphics) on a server connected to the internet. The host owns the server, and customers pay for storage and access to that server.
So, yes, you need Website hosting if you want your pages to be accessible to anyone around the world. If you only create a site for personal use, you can technically host it yourself and store its data on your own server.
There are three main purposes of web hosting:
Accessibility-users can load your site anywhere, even if the original data files are far away.
Speed-distance used to affect the loading speed of a site, but now web hosts create content delivery networks (CDNs), so site data doesn’t need to travel far to reach end users.
Security-hackers and thieves use viruses to access websites and user data. Your web Host should protect your files from being stolen or damaged.
Three Types Of Hosting Plans
When shopping for a web host, you will see three available hosting options-shared hosting, virtual private server, and dedicated server. Here’s an overview of each type of hosting plan and whether it fits your needs.
Shared Hosting
As the name suggests, your data will share the server with other websites. In this case, you rent space on the server, and if you need more space, you will have to pay more. This option works well for small sites that have a limited amount of content or data. However, you should also consider the amount of site traffic you get.
Even if you don’t have many files for your page, the server should provide access to those files for everyone who visits the page. So, the more traffic you get, the more space and bandwidth it takes to contain it.
Shared hosting also works well if you are looking for a cheap and efficient way to host your website. Since you share space, the cost of hosting services is cheaper compared to VPS or dedicated servers.
The downside of shared hosting is that it’s not as secure as other options, and it can get expensive if you need a lot of space and / or bandwidth. As your site gets new visitors, you may have to upgrade to another hosting plan to accommodate them.
Advantages
Cheap
Easy To Use
Can be upgraded as needed
Cons
Your site is affected by others on the Server
Can get expensive when scaling
Not as secure as VPS
Virtual private Server (VPS)
While Shared hosting plans mean sharing one server with other websites, VPS plans give you more customization and control over your site. A virtual private Server also provides dedicated resources for your site, so elements such as speed and accessibility are not affected by other websites on the server.
VPS plans can be affordable or expensive depending on how much storage space you need and the amount of traffic you get on your site. They’re also more secure than shared hosting plans, and much easier to scale up or down as needed.
Virtual private servers are also very similar to cloud hosting. However, while cloud hosts can store your files on multiple servers for better efficiency, VPS plans typically use a single server for added security. Nonetheless, your data may be stored elsewhere for faster site speed and accessibility.
Overall, VPS works for most sites, including small and medium-sized businesses.
Advantages
Secure Network
Specialized Site Resources
Fast and efficient scalability
Cons
More Expensive Than Shared Hosting
Not As Secure As A Dedicated Server
Dedicated Server
Typically, you only want a dedicated server if you have an enterprise-level business and want complete control over every aspect of your web hosting experience. As the name suggests, you get your own server that you don’t share with anyone else. This is the most expensive and secure option, and it also allows you to manage multiple visitors without significantly increasing your bandwidth.
You can also specify server configuration settings, making it more productive on the front or back. For example, if you need a functional site for employees and managers to communicate and share files, you want a back-end server configuration. However, if you are building a front-facing website with multiple user accounts, you will have to adjust the structure accordingly.
Advantages
Best Performance
Fully Customizable
Excellent security settings
Cons
The original plan was expensive
You need to pay for Managed IT services or have your own IT team
Web Hosting Examples
Fortunately, many different website hosting options are available, so you can compare and contrast each provider until you find one that suits your budget and needs. We’ll also cover the various elements to consider when choosing a web host so you can make an informed decision.
Here are five examples to help you get started.
Hostinger-affordable shared Hosting
If you’re just starting out or building a lot of websites, you’ll love the efficiency and affordability of Hostinger’s plans. You can get your site up and running for as little as $2.39 per month, making it much cheaper than other hosting options available. The site also offers cloud and VPS hosting if you want to upgrade. There’s even a site builder to help you get started.
InMotion-High Performance VPS Hosting
As we mentioned, VPS hosting works well for sites of all shapes and sizes as it is fully customizable and offers excellent cybersecurity options. InMotion is one of the better VPS hosts, thanks to its high-performance plans that give you better control over your site and how it works. In addition, as you can see, you can pay in advance for hosting for several years to save a lot of money in the long run.
WPEngine-Superior WordPress Hosting
WordPress is one of the most used website creation platforms because it offers many tools and advantages. While most website hosting services can help you build a WordPress site, WPEngine only focuses on WordPress and WooCommerce, so it’s a better option than most. WPEngine is also a valuable resource if you need help configuring your site or adding new templates and plugins.
SiteGround-Comprehensive Cloud Hosting
Cloud hosting is slightly different from VPS because you have less control over your server settings. However, as with a VPS, you can scale up your operations quickly and efficiently, making it an ideal choice for companies looking to expand into new locations and markets. SiteGround specializes in cloud hosting solutions, and you can add more security options to make it more like a VPS.
HostGator-affordable dedicated servers
HostGator is an excellent all-in-one hosting provider but has some of the best prices for dedicated servers. This way, even a small business can benefit from its own servers without spending a fortune. HostGator also has excellent customer service and can guide you through every step of the site development process.
What type of Hosting is best for beginners?
The type of hosting you need will depend on what you are trying to do with your website. For example, if you’re building a blog, shared hosting may be the best option because it’s affordable, and you don’t need a lot of bandwidth for your content. However, if you’re building a business site with payment processing, customer accounts, and interactive product listings, you’ll need to use a VPS.
Conversely, if you’re building a WordPress site, it’s best to use a hosting provider who knows WordPress inside and out. Even if you are a beginner, a dedicated WordPress host like WPEngine will give you the best results. In addition, since there is a learning curve with this platform, you want a host who can help you when faced with obstacles.